Flu shots will be given by the Brooke County Health Department from 9-11:30 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. every Wednesday at the health department office at Wellsburg Courthouse.

No appointment is necessary. There will be no charge with a Medicare, Advantra or Health Plan card. Insurance cards are required.

During the flu season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has the following recommendations to reduce your risk of getting the flu:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.

• If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

• Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.

• Also, antiviral medications may be used to prevent the flu. Ask your family doctor if you may benefit from this method.

For more information, call the flu information hotline at 800-232-4636 or the Brooke County Health Department at 304-737-3665.